The Bible mentions the lifespan of 70 years and 80 years in Psalm 90:10 and raises questions regarding human life expectancy.
« Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. »(Psalm 90:10)
What interpretation can we make of this verse?
On the one hand, there are those who believe that this verse from a psalm attributed to Moses, speaks of the brevity of human life and the fragility of existence.
But in reality, lifespan varies depending on many factors, such as health, environment, genetics, and medical advances.
Today, thanks to advances in medicine and a better quality of life, many people live well beyond their 70s and 80s.
The verse from Psalm 90:10 is therefore to be understood in its historical and cultural context, rather than as a scientific statement about human lifespan.
On the other hand, Psalm 90:10 uses numbers that have symbolic meaning in the Bible and in Hebrew culture.
Here are some possible interpretations:
The number 70 is often associated with a complete cycle or a period of judgment.
For example, the 70 years of the Babylonian exile (Jeremiah 25:11) were a time of judgment and purification for the people of Israel.
The number 70 can symbolize a full lifespan, reflecting the idea that 70 is a full life.
The number 80, although it appears less frequently than 70 in the Bible, can represent a special blessing or exceptional strength.
Moses, for example, was 80 years old when he led the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 7:7).
Thus, reaching 80 years old can be seen as a manifestation of robustness and divine favor.
The ages mentioned can be seen as a representation of the human condition. They emphasize the brevity and fragility of human life, putting our mortality and the transience of our earthly achievements into perspective. This invites believers to focus on spiritual and eternal things rather than temporary glories.
In summary, Psalm 90:10 uses symbolic numbers to remind believers of the brevity of human life and to encourage them to seek divine wisdom and live meaningfully and godly lives.
Apostle Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA